'Beacon' shining brightly

The Beacon of Hope Scholarship Program, launched just last week by the Albany diocesan Catholic Schools Office, has already led nearly 200 people to pledge more than $62,500 toward scholarships for needy children.

Bishop Howard J. Hubbard said, "Those who have chosen to help grow the scholarship program have the opportunity to be the 'beacon of hope' that will light the way in an individual child's life, and by so doing ensure that our society is not only academically capable, but also faith-filled."

The scholarship fund represents the Diocese's effort to fulfill the commitment reaffirmed by the U.S. bishops in 2005 for Catholic schools to be available, accessible and affordable.

"This is just the beginning of our effort to make Catholic education accessible to more children," said Sister Mary Jane Herb, IHM, superintendent of diocesan schools. "We are thrilled by the generosity of our supporters. The scholarships offer hope not only for families seeking a Catholic education for their children, but for the future of Catholic education in our region as well."

The pledges will provide 14 needy families with $1,500 annually to be used for tuition at a Catholic school over a period of three years.

(To learn more about the scholarship program, contact Nicki Pezzulo at 453-6676 or visit www.rcdaschools.org/beaconofhope.)

(10/5/06)